A client's spouse has just learned of the client's terminal illness. The spouse is sitting in the corner of the client's room crying, and says to the nurse, "I feel as if I'm already so alone." Which action should the nurse take first?

A. Explain that alternative treatment options may be helpful is not appropriate at this moment. The spouse is expressing grief, and the focus should be on emotional support rather than discussing medical treatment options, which may not be relevant to the spouse’s current emotional state. B. Offer reassurance that the spouse is not alone may provide some comfort but does not address the underlying need for the spouse to express their emotions. It is more important to listen and allow the spouse to share their feelings first. C. Encourage the spouse to share their feelings is the most appropriate first response. The spouse is expressing emotional distress, and the nurse should offer a safe space for the spouse to talk about their feelings. This approach helps to validate the spouse’s emotions and provides an opportunity for emotional support. D. Remind the spouse that the client may still live a long time is not appropriate because it could invalidate the spouse’s feelings of loss and grief. The spouse is dealing with the reality of the terminal illness, and the nurse should not offer false hope or minimize the situation. D. Remind the spouse that the client may still live a long time is not appropriate because it could invalidate the spouse’s feelings of loss and grief. The spouse is dealing with the reality of the terminal illness, and the nurse should not offer false hope or minimize the situation.